Matt Lee is trying to join his brother Jordan as an Elite Series qualifier for next season. His boat was the first one we found on Lake Norman this morning.
Lee entered this event 6th in the Southern Open point standings, but Justin Lucas, who was in 2nd place, isn't fishing this event because he has already qualified for the Bassmaster Classic. So the door is slightly open for Lee.
I asked him if he would definitely fish the Elite Series next year, if he qualifies.
"Yes," Lee said. "Great question. No pressure or anything. I'll probably think about that all day."
I've known Matt since he and Jordan were the finalists in College BASS a few years back. He doesn't mind giving me a little grief, obviously.
Lee said he caught 14 bass in the first 30 minutes this morning, but only 3 meant the 14-inch minimum. That bite has died, and he is moving on.
